Calculating the Cost of a Trip from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri to Shelbyville, Illinois Based on Current Gas Prices
Traveling from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri to Shelbyville, Illinois is a pleasant journey that covers approximately 200 miles. As of now, average gas prices hover around $3.50 per gallon. With gas being one of the primary expenses associated with a road trip, understanding the different routes available and their costs influences how you plan your travel. This article discusses the most popular routes between these two locations, examines the anticipated costs, and ultimately recommends the best option.
Understanding Your Route Options
Before determining the costs, it’s essential to identify the common routes taken between Kansas City and Shelbyville. There are two prominent options: route via I-70 E and route via I-64 E. Each route has its own scenery, road conditions, and especially fuel efficiency considerations.
Route 1: I-70 E
Distance: Approximately 200 miles
Estimated Time: Around 3 hours and 30 minutes
To take this route, you would start by getting onto I-70 E from Downtown Kansas City. Continue on I-70 E through Columbia and then merge onto I-57 N towards Shelbyville. This highway provides a relatively straight shot to your destination with minimal distractions.
Gas Consumption & Cost Estimates
Assuming an average vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you would need around 8 gallons of gas for this trip:
[ \text = \text \times \text = 8 \times 3.50 = $28 ]
Route 2: I-64 E
Distance: Approximately 220 miles
Estimated Time: About 4 hours
For this route, you would take I-70 E as before, but instead of merging onto I-57 N, you'd continue on I-64 E. This option may be slightly longer in distance and time due to the additional miles. However, it passes through beautiful landscapes and charming small towns.
Gas Consumption & Cost Estimates
Using the same vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you would need about 8.8 gallons of gas for this trip:
[ \text = 8.8 \times 3.50 = $30.80 ]
Evaluating the Routes
Scenic Benefits
While I-70 E provides a straightforward and speedy journey, I-64 E offers some delightful scenery along the way. The landscapes passing through smaller towns and varying terrains can enrich the travel experience. For road trippers looking for a leisurely drive, I-64 E may appeal due to its natural beauty, even if the cost and distance are slightly higher.
Traffic Considerations
It’s important to consider traffic patterns that may affect your travel time on either route. I-70 can often be congested near larger cities and during peak travel hours. The I-64 route, while longer, may offer more consistent driving conditions with potentially less congestion.
Route Recommendations
Based on a combination of factors — distance, time, and fuel cost — the I-70 E route appears to be the most efficient option for the trip from Downtown Kansas City to Shelbyville. The lower fuel cost of approximately $28 presents a more budget-friendly option, while the travel time of about 3 hours and 30 minutes makes it less demanding compared to the alternative route.
Travel Tips
Plan Your Fuel Stops: Gas stations along I-70 are plentiful, but it's wise to fill up before leaving Kansas City. Check apps or websites for real-time gas prices along your route.
Stay Updated on Traffic: Use navigation apps that provide live updates on traffic conditions, so you can make real-time decisions to avoid delays.
Bring Snacks and Water: Keep yourself fueled with snacks and hydrate during the journey to make your trip enjoyable.
Explore Small Towns en Route: If you have extra time, consider making stops in towns along the way. Places like Columbia, MO can be a perfect pit stop for food or sightseeing.
Conclusion
Traveling from Downtown Kansas City to Shelbyville, Illinois, offers a delightful experience filled with scenic views, comfortable drive times, and reasonable fuel costs depending on your route. Between the two primary options, the I-70 E route stands out as the best choice for those looking to minimize expenses and time spent on the road, averaging around $28 in fuel costs and taking approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete. Whether you seek a quick drive or a leisurely journey, you will find enjoyment while traveling through Missouri and into the heart of Illinois.